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scige · 4 years

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「madelyn cline & cis female」⇾ beaumont, saige, the senior radcliffe student’s records show that she is a cancer and 22 years old. she is studying linguistics + criminal psychology, living in noland and can be blithe, energetic, evasive & irrational. when i see her i am reminded of the familiar riff of an old song, skinned knees with laughter following, and wishes on eyelashes stuck to your cheekbones. ⇽「james & 21 & est & they/them.」

N HERE IS MY LAST CHILD FR NOW ... both happy n sad ... god ... bites fist. alright. let’s go!

TW CHILD ABUSE, DRUG USE, ALCOHOLISM, ADDICTION, DEATH, HIT & RUN CAR ACCIDENTS, GRIEF, GUILT

aesthetics.

stick n’ pokes at 2am – when your drunk and giggling too much in between purposeful stabs, avoiding the cracks in the sidewalk because they’re bad luck and they’ll break your mother’s back – even if your mother doesn’t love you, because you love her, the familiar riff in an old song – one that’s got you strumming along silently; there is no guitar, only empty air lit by the christmas lights you haven’t taken down. it’s may. swallowing down shots, and by default, swallowing down problems. laughing quick, easily, constantly. skinned knees from skateboarding, despite being rubbish at it. wishes on eyelashes stuck to your cheekbones, glitter sticking, running into the ocean at sunrise; feeling at home. excuses, and the many forms they come in. telling people you love them through hand squeezes and fresh muffins, sideways glances and soft, eager grins.

basic info.

full name: saige alouette beaumont

nickname(s): n/a :/ give her some

b.o.d. - july 7th, cancer

label(s): the hedonist, the icarcian, the reveler, etc.

height: 5′7″

hometown: thibodaux, louisiana

sexuality: bisexual w/ a very slight preference towards masc-presenting folks

stats

inspired by: serena van der woodsen (gossip girl), aimee gibbs (sex education), alexis rose (schitt’s creek), elle woods (legally blonde), rapunzel (tangled), clementine (eternal sunshine of a spotless mind), angela montenegro (bones), tinkerbell (peter pan), late 2000 / early 2010s kesha… i don’t know because she’s not actually inspired by anybody i made her when i was like 13 HDSJBKFNGHJLDS

biography.

the fallible daughter of two very infallible people: robert beaumont, US lieutenant general (soon to be US general), and manon lévesque, world renowned fashion designer on levels par with gucci and versace. both cold, calculating, and purposeful.

no matter how much she wants to believe otherwise, saige is sure that she was not created out of love. it was an action with a purpose, intentions to create the perfect child. the hybrid of both military genius and fashion extraordinaire. a proper socialite. a 1% citizen. molded to their will.

born in thibodaux, louisiana (surrounded by her father’s family - a long line of old money southern magnates & moguls with a history of beauty pageant winners in each woman) - it took them no more than six months after her birth for her parents to up and move, thus beginning a cycle of packing and unpacking, flying and driving, state-to-state and country-to-country. the longest saige had ever stayed in one place was two years, until radcliffe. even then - conditioned to never become truly attached to a place, she has the urge to up and run away at any given moment, onto the next adventure.

she was kept on a short leash, home-schooled, and learning skills she had no interest in (from cooking to sewing to ballroom dancing - to fencing and firearm safety and self defense) - more like a pet, a project, than a child. the world moved all around her, but she was bound to what her parents allowed her to see. a bird in a cage of thorns.

it was hard to keep and maintain friends - there one day, gone the next. a ghost you could see, clear as day, but never touch - never fully, at least. even if she tried with all her might.

would run from bodyguards (their version of nannies - robert beaumont is a paranoid man with too many enemies to count) into festival crowds and climb out of windows in the middle of the night to swim in lakes with the locals she’d met only hours earlier - as soon as she realized that there was something wrong with the way she lived.

even if it resulted in punishment, military exercises in the form of her own personal boot camp (she’d been forced to do chin-ups, once, when she ripped an expensive gown at the tender age of seven. not since, however, after she wound up sobbing on the floor - instead they moved on. delicate teacups stacked across her back as she did push-ups, the more she did the more that slipped & broke)

she absorbed as she could, as much as she could get; an intense, undying love for a world she always craved to see.

this was the start of something dangerous - a phase that never seemed to end, rebellion coursing through her veins. a wild child in the making, unknowing of limits. she landed herself in any crowd she could squeeze into - bad crowds, in particular and more often than not - they introduced her, the sheltered girl, into a world she hadn’t quite known existed until then.

ran away briefly at the age of fifteen with a man three years older than her & nearly ended up in a tabloid magazine because of it - if it hadn’t been for her parents’ money. though guilt from her parents’ disappointment weighed on her, the thrill fueled something much worse.

from there on, she’d been labeled as a ‘problem child’ - from public intoxication to vandalism, it was clear their daughter was unraveling and nothing could possibly contain her.

boarding school had been an attempt to stop it, enrolled her freshmen year in hopes that she’d come out a proper woman. but being located in new york with easy access to the upper east side of manhattan - it’d been futile.

there’d only been a few significant events during her time there - the death of a classmate (one of her closest friends’ boyfriends) and a ski trip that nearly resulted in her own death, skiing while drunk on a closed off course, in memory of him and the traditions they’d had. the first time she fell in love, and months of pining - running in circles, fights and hiccups and confessions in the dramatic manner all high school relationships seem to be like. they’d finally gotten together - officially, no more sneaking around or pretending - when her parents paid a surprise visit. a rare occasion, nerve-wracking. dangerous. to keep a story short - she’d accidentally exposed her own drug use in their presence, the simple act of pills falling from a purse - and that’d been it. she was gone the next day, with no word to anybody and hardly a word since.

they told family she needed a change of pace, and rumors in her old school said that she’d been expelled, that she’d been sent to the french countryside to live with her grandmother.

she’d only gone to washington, that was all. france was too good, and she was too undeserving. instead she was enrolled in public school, only a quarter through her junior year. her parents rarely spoke to her - rarely in town, the only eyes kept on her were security cameras and the occasional check-in by family friends (the new word for bodyguards, apparently)

but as always - when left alone, saige scrambled to find somewhere she fit, somewhere to tuck herself away in the comfort of other people. a small group, but a loyal group - harmless minus a few miscellaneous charges that they said every small town kid had, at some point. they were safe, they were family - as close as she could get. at least, she had thought so. had really believed it.

she hadn’t intended to go to university after graduating high school, not yet eighteen - not for another month or two, at least. she wanted to travel, meet new people and learn new languages (she’d learned four, already, but had always been a glutton. craved to know more, as if she unlocked secrets with every phrase she could speak) and just. exist.

maybe she should’ve. should’ve left as quick as possible, and never turn back.

saige mysteriously disappeared from the public eye for an entire year, the entirety of her 18th year on earth, before promptly showing up at radcliffe university, ready to learn.

it’d been a year of legal cases & lawsuits & avoiding prison with expensive lawyers and a lot of money.

the getaway driver for an armed robbery at a bank, an unknowing accomplice until her supposed friend ran out from the building and jumped in her car, screaming for her to drive, drive, drive. it had only supposed to have been a quick stop before a road trip to the coast. nobody was supposed to get hurt. but scared, and high, saige had obeyed - and by doing so, led a police chase and, of course, a hit & run that eventually led to saige crashing the car midst breakdown.

the sole victim survived, thankfully - and the beaumonts have been paying the medical bills since. her friend - the one who started it all - was charged & sentenced. but saige got off relatively scot-free. just a year of community service, a slap on the wrist (and the growing wallets of all involved in handling her case). it would’ve made national news if her parents hadn’t stepped in - favors called, resulting in only local headlines.

they hadn’t spoken to her since then. three years of radio silence. she’d think they were dead if it hadn’t been the steady flow of money in her bank account. their silence only feels like a threat of what’s to come if she fucks up again.

ever since - she’s avoided causing too much trouble, still very much the party girl she’d like to be, but staying out of headlines and tabloids. partially in fear of her parents finally cutting ties, permanently, and partially in fear that she’ll end up costing someone else their life with her own selfishness.

UPDATE: she did not avoid trouble n got disowned after a high speed yacht chase it was. a lot. anyways she’s lying to everyone n pretending she’s still rich while rapidly losing money to lawsuit bills n hospital bills n just <3 a whole lot <3 has had to sell her favorite cars and her favorite bass guitar. sheds the smallest tear. spent the summer couch-hopping bt pretending she wasn’t couch-hopping and being :/ really messy. not a good fun look! sucks ... disappeared fr like a straight week n then popped up like hehe wat’s up :D. sighs sm.

personality.

she is so … bubbly. so fucking bubbly. she’s has so much energy in her. goes running every morning and every night and swims almost every afternoon and she’s never tired, even if she hasn’t slept the last night and even if she’s been dancing for five hours in a club in high heels and nothing but vodka in her system. the personification of a coke bottle shaken up, if the coke bottle in question could laugh and smile at you and make you feel, somehow, at home even though you’d only met her in the bathroom queue.

tries her hardest to be the happy fun friend, the cool friend, the one who can hook you up with whatever you need because she sleeps with her drug dealer and gets discounts, but like, it’s totally okay because they’re also friends.

generally comes off as very confident of herself, and fearless, and reckless but like - fun reckless. the kind of reckless you wouldn’t mind to be around because she takes your worries and acknowledges them and reassures you that it’s fine, that it’s grand, even when it may definitely not be.

takes a lot. so much. could ramble for days, hand gestures and all. never stops talking. never.

if she wants to do something, she’ll do it and there’s not very much you can do to stop her. stubborn, but at the same time easy going? very go go go. mischievous. even if she’s trying to do something stupid you kind of just like … have to let her do it, or otherwise she’ll mope for three hours and pout at you and then you’ll feel questionably guilty, which is admittedly a little manipulative on her end and isn’t the best thing, but i never said she’s the best person ever because she’s most certainly … not.

a vegetarian because meat makes her physically sick, like, she’s got a weird intolerance to it and it’s not quite an allergy because it’s really just red meats but she’ll get a tummy ache.

her vocabulary consists of a lot of ‘likes’ and ‘ums’ and ‘yknows’, y’know? her statements always sound like questions.

99% sure she has adhd but she’s never been diagnosed because her parents simply would not allow her to go to therapy so if she does have any neurological disorders, mental illness, and the likes of those - she doesn’t know and doesn’t know where to even begin to find out. her parents? fucking suck.

like i said, she’s currently not on speaking terms with them. more of their decision than hers. she still loves them, a lot - and there’s a part of her that believes that they still love her, that they have to, because she’s not disowned yet. even though they haven’t said more than ten words to her since she was eighteen - as long as they keep sending her money, they still care - right?

owns four cars … bad idea considering her past, but alas. spending her money is a coping mechanism and she likes to drive because it’s a form of freedom. anyways. all her cars are on campus and she’s probably not allowed to have them all on campus but she does. one’s a sleek sports car, the other is a jacked up pick-up truck that’s decked out in like … LED lights and shit, the third one is the same exact fucking mustang from the princess diaries because she’s obsessed with the movie & usually gets what she wants. the fourth is a mini cooper.

she’s a photographer (for funsies) and the walls of her room in noland are covered in photographs and art and taped-down plants. her room in general is really cluttered. like, it’s super homey. super cozy. but it’s a mess. clothes everywhere, she’s got a pile of instruments and other miscellaneous hobbies that she wanted to do and then either never did, or did for a few days and got bored of and haven’t touched since.

i mentioned earlier that she was taught a bunch of skills when growing up - and like, she doesn’t really utilize any of them? knitting, sewing, cookie, three different forms of ballroom dancing - all gone to waste and she’s pretty rusty on most of it, but it’s there. in her mind. it’s kind of neat and i promise she’s not a mary sue it’s just her upbringing HBSJKDFNLG she’s really nuanced i swear. anyways she can also work a gun and a car engine but hates half of the things she knows how to do because she was forced to learn these things.

she plays bass guitar. loves it, loves her guitar. treasured item. she knows violin & piano too but she fucking hates piano & is mostly indifferent towards violin. she can hold a note in other instruments but it’s like. not great.

got really into languages at a young age due to her constant traveling and started learning them unprompted. her mother is like. literally french. a french citizen. so she grew up learning english & french but from there on she’s gotten fluent in spanish (similar 2 french) and latin (dead languages are fun) and then she’s working on a few others like mandarin and german and scottish gaelic specifically but she mostly just knows a few phrases here and there. like, enough to get her through a city if needed.

like she’s super smart and very talented but she’s also ditzy as hell. big dumbass energy to the point where maybe you don’t realize that she’s actually really good at a lot of things because it’s not like she really flaunts it either?

she’s just very reckless, and very much a party girl. has quite the collection of drugs & uses socially, but also alone and throughout the day. rarely sober.

high functioning alcoholic and at this point she doesn’t really know what she’s like when she’s completely sober? which is really bad but she’s convinced that if she goes sober she’ll just be miserable and horrible because at her very core she believes she’s like. the worst human being alive. like very deep issues of self loathing covered by baileys in her morning coffee and 23 crystal lite packets in her yeti cup that happens to be filled with vodka.

this has been a budding problem that was developed since she was a young teenager. the ehem. situation that happened when she was eighteen only amplified it.

is essentially wearing a mask of confidence and giddiness and flirtatiousness because she doesn’t want people to think she’s not doing well, because she isn’t.

loves so much. loves everything, so much. everything, everybody. falls in love like five times a day but nothing really sticks to her either, for the most part. i hate to say it but she does flock to shitty people / general assholes because that’s just … how she is, that’s what she’s surrounded herself with her entire life. even her high school boyfriend was an asshole - just like, not to her, which made it Okay in her mind. she finds these kind of people like … super interesting which is really questionable but y’know what? we’re fine. it’s fine. i’m fine.

she sleeps around often, to be frank. she hates being alone and she rarely sleeps in her own dorm unless someone is in there sleeping with her. otherwise she’s at different houses. could be a friend’s bed, could be a stranger’s. has slept with the entire baseball team, probably. she’s also the type of person who’ll try and maintain a positive, good friendship with whoever she sleeps with because she hates the idea of having a regrettable encounter and just. refuses.

this is kind of a problem because she blurs the lines between friendship and Something More too often, and with too many people. wants to be loved but it’s never enough. probably ends up hurting people without realizing it because they think they have something super special but she does this with a lot of people and it’s super :/

does stick and pokes a whole bunch. she can’t draw for shit so they’re not great but she thinks they’re fun and she’s been doing it for a while so like, who cares, right? let her give you one :)

gets sent dress prototypes and like. drafts of designs & articles of clothing from her fashion lines that aren’t out yet and won’t be for a while by her very own mother. saige absolutely gives them all away, for the most part. or it sits in her closet, and stays there. her go-to gift for birthday presents, or christmas gifts, or whenever she feels like it. like, feel free to raid her closet?

ok that’s all. love her.

wanted connections.

a best friend… someone who sticks by her side even though she is a certified Mess.

a ride or die… is it the same as a best friend? maybe. but it’s got a fancy name and i want both so :)

close friends… she’s really friendly and the kind of girl to have been really popular in high school but didn’t care for it and talks to everybody like she’s known them her entire life, so. she’d have a good amount of these!

grumpy friend… to balance her happy friend. she’ll fuck them up in a friendship way. with her cheerfulness.

party pals… they don’t talk much outside of parties but they’re practically glued to the hip when they’re at them. hold your hair back kind of close.

frenemies… or fake friends, toxic friends, people who use her for money or like … sex, or whatever? anything? people who barely tolerate her because she gives them stuff sometimes.

bad influences… they just encourage her to do more, be worse, never get better.

good influences… like … YOINK! stop being an idiot! do your homework! idot!

a tutor… because she’s like…smart…but she’s also stupid…super bad at math & science. help her.

hook ups… friends with benefits, a one night stand that is a little? awkward? since then. past & present tenses. :)

exes… she’s noncommittal so they likely wouldn’t have lasted very long but? yolo? she can be a heartbreaker, as marina said, as a treat? whether they dated or were fucking … either works. but i do love angst :)

one-sided hatred… someone who just fucking … despises her. but she doesn’t realize because she’s an idiot and thinks they’re just like. joking around! like they’re best buddies!

annoyance… but she’s the annoyance. she’s the thorn in their side.

ex-best friend… where something happened between them, like, anything, and it ruined their friendship forever. very sad. angst potential, though.

but like. i’ll take anything.

steals your mail… who knows why?

cat escape… he keeps running away and she keeps letting him inside her room even though she’s allergic…

married old couple… the kind of friendship where they always bicker like they’ve been together for fifty years, but it’s purely platonic (or is it? slowburn BAYBEY. DENIAL babyey.)

off and on again… i think that one that’s not good for them because they enable each other & only get like … angry at each other, and it’s like, messy. but it’s super hard to stop. probably reminds her of high school so that’s why she tries so hard to stick around, but alas. it’s not good. it’s toxic. stop it.

the drug dealer… the one she sleeps with… even though she can just pay for it because she’s rich but like. it’s funner this way.

blurred status… like, it’s just really confusing of what they are? are they, aren’t they? the relationship status is just … muddled. she’s a mess and gets involved with too many people without intending to. potential to hurt feelings. :)

please. take her. give me connections.

#ruhqintro #child abuse tw #drug abuse tw #alcoholism tw #addiction tw #death tw #hit and run tw #car accident tw #grief tw

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kristinsimmons · 5 years

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How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic (for Dentists, Patients, and Families)

Saturday, April 27, 2019 is National Prescription Drug Takeback Day. Between 10 AM—2 PM, you can turn in unused prescription drugs, including opioids, at locations throughout the United States. Check out Google’s Location Finder for a location near you.

You may have heard of the “opioid epidemic” rumbling through our nation, but what does that term mean?

If you’re unfamiliar with this crisis in the United States, it may shock you to learn that dental offices can be starting points for this epidemic.

Let’s look at how this works for everyone from the dentist to the patient (and those in between). There is hope for opioid addiction.

What are opioids?

Dentists often prescribe opioids for pain management after surgeries or major procedures. It’s a convenient choice, since opioids are a class of drugs that have pain-blocking qualities. Unfortunately, improperly using these pills can have lasting, devastating consequences.

It’s possible to become addicted to opioids in as little as five days. (1)

Despite this, many dental opioid prescriptions can last for up to 10 days. The severity of this prescription issue makes it important for dentists, dental patients, and their loved ones to learn more. Your knowledge could be the difference between a routine prescription and a painful battle with opioid addiction.

You can stay safe from the opioid epidemic by knowing the risks of using opioids, educating yourself on taking prescribed opioids correctly, and understanding what to do if addiction takes hold.

List of Opioids Prescribed in Dentistry

The following are opioid drugs often prescribed for pain management by dentists:

Hydrocodone (Vicodin)—The prescription rate for this drug doubled between 1999 and 2011.

Oxycodone (Percocet® or OxyContin®)—This prescription rate increased 500% in the same timeframe. (2)

Acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol® No. 3 and Tylenol® No. 4).

Opioids also branch beyond prescribed medications. Other forms include heroin, morphine, tramadol, and synthetic opioids like Fentanyl (Duragesic). Though each of these opioids vary in strength, they all have addictive qualities and harmful effects if used long-term.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. is in the midst of the “worst drug overdose epidemic in history.” (3)

Unfortunately, the data shows that prescription rates for opioids are still climbing. The government, researchers, and dental experts all warn against prescribing unnecessary opioids. Instead, they are urging patients to consider other viable options for pain relief.

What is the opioid epidemic?

The opioid epidemic is caused, in part, by nonmedical use of prescription drugs. This may include: (4)

Taking a larger prescription than needed

Using drugs prescribed to someone else

Taking your prescription with alcohol or other legal or illegal drugs

Abusing prescription drugs to feel a sense of euphoria—this behavior is much more likely to occur with opioid pain relievers than with other medicines

Due to their addictive nature, these pills are in high demand, and not always for medicinal use. What’s the delineation between necessary and nonmedicinal use? Well, for one, the effect on the user’s life.

The definition of opioid use disorder is a pattern of misuse that leads to emotional or functional distress.

A simple study of third molar extractions reveals how sinister this issue can be. A recent study found that young Americans prescribed opioids for their wisdom teeth were at greater risk for addiction.

Patients who filled their opioid prescription had a 13% chance of persistent opioid use. This puts them at high risk of addiction. On the other hand, only 5% of patients who didn’t fill their prescription struggled with long-term opioid issues. (5)

Statistics like these are why I urge dentists and their patients to consider choosing anti-inflammatory drugs or non-opioid pain relievers. One prescription, especially in younger people, can have long-term effects. Consider several options before jumping immediately to opioid prescribing with addictive potential.

If prescriptions for opioids slow down, this epidemic may as well.

Opioid Abuse Statistics

How many people abuse opioids?

In 2016, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) found that 11.8 million people over the age of 12 misused opioids. 2.3 million had begun the habit within the past year, highlighting the growing epidemic. (6)

Prescription Opioids vs. Heroin

In 2016, 11.5 million Americans misused prescription opioids, a number far greater than the 948,000 who had used heroin. That’s an astronomical difference in users.

Unfortunately, only 17.5% of those addicted to opioid painkillers sought professional help. This totals far less recovery treatment per capita than those fighting a heroin addiction. (7)

Both are issues of drug abuse, but for some reason, opioid drug users aren’t seeking help like they should. Perhaps this is due to the fact opioid addiction affects people who don’t seem like drug abusers, or because the addiction began with a legal prescription. Whatever the reason, the statistics are alarming.

Can prescribed opioids function as a gateway drug?

In a recent interview with heroin users entering treatment, 80% had abused prescription opioids before turning to heroin. (8) These numbers highlight that opioid use is a road that can lead to other harmful narcotics.

Substance abuse is always a real threat. Prescribed opioids present no less inherent danger and can lead to other addictions.

Can prescribed opioids hurt my job performance?

Research has linked an increase in opioid prescriptions to a decrease in the number of people participating in the labor force. Men with less than a bachelor’s degree are the most vulnerable.

Nationwide, the number of men participating in the workforce has significantly decreased, with 44% of the decline attributed to opioid misuse. (9) Simply put, opioid use causes overall employment numbers to drop.

What does prescription opioid misuse cost society?

Opioid addictions have a wider-reaching and more injurious impact than you may think. Opioid misuse cost a staggering $11.8 billion in the U.S in 2011. 53% of these costs came from losses in workplace productivity, and 30% was due to unnecessary cost in our health care systems. 17% of the money went to the criminal justice system to handle cases. (10)

This epidemic impacts taxpayers, patients, public health, members of the workforce, our courts, and more.

How do people get addicted to an opioid?

Most people swept up in the opioid crisis were originally prescribed the pills they now find addictive. That’s why it’s crucial to know the warning signs of nonmedical use and prescription drug addiction.

The first symptom to note is a feeling of dependence. Dependance can manifest in several forms. These include missing the drug when you are no longer taking it or experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, trouble sleeping, vomiting, and more. If you notice these sensations, contact your doctor immediately. Never continue use of opioids or a prescription when you notice signs of dependence or withdrawal.

Addiction is defined as continued use of a drug despite negative consequences, so avoid it at all costs. (11)

Prescription opioids, while occasionally helpful for severe pain, are also highly chemically addictive. Opioids access opioid receptors in the brain and body. This process leads to relaxation, euphoria, and blocked pain messages.

It also gives the brain a surge of dopamine, a neurotransmitter. This is where the real problem lies. Our brains can become addicted to this rush of dopamine, causing us to crave the opioids that provide it.

You can learn more about the brain’s response to drugs in this video from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

youtube

Short-term and Long-term Effects of Opioids

So, other than addiction, what risks and effects are you facing if you use medical opioids?

Short term use can have fewer side effects, though still potentially unpleasant ones. A few of these pesky problems include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, and slowed breathing.

Furthermore, most states have strict laws against driving under the influence of opiates due to delayed response times in users. Be aware that you may need to make appropriate transportation arrangements to continue life as usual. That is, if your body will let you.

Long-term effects of opioid use are even more concerning. Research suggests harmful side effects increase with length of use. Your organs can suffer due to vomiting, abdominal bloating, and liver damage. Furthermore, your brain may sustain damage or develop chemical dependence.

As you continue, your tolerance will increase, which demands higher, more harmful doses to feel the opioids’ impact. These negative side effects will continue to compound with prolonged use. (12)

Improper use of these prescribed medications can pose some of the same terrors as more infamous substances like heroin! Here’s a visual depiction of what’s going on inside the body when opioid abuse occurs. It’s clear that the less opioids in your system, the less risk of ugly side effects.

Risk Factors for Opioid Addiction

Risk factors for opioid use disorder are complex, but there are a few considerations that could raise your chances of getting hooked.

Ignoring directions. Taking opioids instead of opting for other pain relievers will require precision on your part. The federal government has estimated that 21-29% of patients given opioids for chronic pain take them incorrectly. If you receive a prescription for opioids, follow your dentist’s exact directions. Misusing them or treating them casually could build dependence.

Chronic pain. It seems that chronic pain patients are more likely to develop an addiction than the general population. Up to 60% of major trauma patients are estimated to develop an addictive issue. (13) Due to their pain-blocking nature, opioids can be particularly attractive. If you have chronic pain and your dentist prescribes opioids, proceed with caution.

A history of addiction. If you’ve experienced past addiction, it can be a potential indicator for opioid use disorder. Talk with your dentist to ensure this addictive pattern won’t repeat with your dental pain medications. (14)

Mental health conditions. Any struggles with mental illness can make taking opioids more risky, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Personalized effect. Your own physiological reactions to opioids can heighten your risk of addiction. Biological makeup can determine individual experience. Certain people are more or less likely to experience an addictive, dopamine-driven “euphoria.” This feeling is subjective and ranges between patients. (15)

Education level. Congrats to all you grads out there! The more scholastic achievements you have under your belt, the less likely you are to succumb to an opioid addiction. That’s one more reason to be a lifelong learner! (16)

This list of symptoms can help you and your doctor assess if you are struggling with substance use disorder.

If you begin to experience thoughts of self-harm or are looking for opioid treatment options, do not hesitate to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. They are always available by call, text, or online chat. Reach out 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK.

The good news is that you have more treatment options than you may realize. This problem is treatable with time, effort, and intentional steps toward change.

Can you overdose on prescription opioids?

Overdosing on prescription opioids is 100% possible. The problem in abusing these drugs is that you build up tolerance over time. Users seek “higher highs” and bigger doses to feel satiated.

Most opioid deaths are from taking prescriptions in doses much larger than prescribed or ingesting them in combination with other drugs. Both of these choices tend to become dangerous habits in long-term users seeking a fix. (17)

Taking a high dose of opioids can lead to death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.

The danger here? Tolerance. Building a tolerance to opioids from long-term use is treacherous. Tolerance to the drug’s euphoric effect will increase faster than your body’s tolerance to the dangerous side effects.

Users may be taking more to get high, but at some point, their body can’t keep up. In fact, this is the reason that many opioid overdoses are accidental. The need for more dopamine and higher doses can be fatal. Did you know that opioid overdoses actually kill more people than car accidents each year? These tragic accidents can be avoided with addiction treatment.

This is a crucial juncture in history for understanding and preventing overdoses. The opioid epidemic mortality rate is skyrocketing. Overdose deaths in this category have risen 200% since 2000.

In fact, the CDC found that 61% of all drug overdose deaths were linked to an opioid. (18) As it steals over 130 lives each day, this crisis has established itself as a real national threat.

Wondering if you’re in danger of abusing opioids? This quiz can help you and your doctor assess if you need treatment for substance abuse.

If you’re looking for a next step, there are resources available.

SAMHSA has a directory of opioid treatment programs.

You might join a meeting of Narcotics Anonymous for support.

Finally, consider this thorough list of National Institute of Health-approved options to treat opioid addiction.

Most importantly, if you feel you are in danger of an overdose, call 911 right away. Your treatment plan can be determined once you are safe and in stable condition.

How to Prevent Opioid Addiction

Now that we’ve covered the seriousness of this crisis, it’s time for one of my favorite subjects: prevention.

As a family member, dentist, or patient, you’re likely to come into contact with opioids at some juncture. Here are some of my tips to stay safe and use your educated judgment about prescription opioids:

1. For Dentists

As healthcare providers, we are the first line of defense against these chilling statistics. It’s more important each year to stay updated, conscious, and preventative in your care. Here are my top tips for protecting your patients and prescriptions:

Stay up to date. The NIH is clear that “partnerships between researchers and practitioners are increasingly important as we face crises of the scale of the current opioid overdose epidemic.” Staying current with ADA standards creates a safety net for your practice and provides clear guidelines in this ever-changing area.

Continue your education. One of my favorite things about medicine is the constant opportunity to access fresh ideas and information. Here’s a joint webinar presentation from the ADA and CDC presenting alternatives to opioid prescriptions. These steps can cut down on addiction rates after dental procedures.

Avoid generalized prescriptions. Talk to your patients about their individualized needs and the risks of opioids. Each prescription is personal, so ask thoughtful questions and suggest non-opioid pain relievers and anti-inflammatories first. You will communicate how much you care about your patients by your candor.

Limit the quantity of opioids that you prescribe. Data suggests that likelihood of opioid dependence starts climbing on the third day. (19) Offer as few doses as possible without leaving your patient uncomfortable. Many times, after a few days, a NSAID will handle the pain level.

Do your homework. Check in with your state prescription database to be sure your patient does not already have an opioid prescription.

Be observant. Remember, not all patients who are drug-seeking will present with obvious symptoms. (2) Before prescribing opioids, take a few moments to look for more subtle signs of drug-seeking behavior (DSB).

2. For Patients

Communicate and comply with instructions. Prevent potential pitfalls with prescription opioids by following your doctor’s orders as carefully as possible. Also, please don’t hesitate to let your dentist know if you develop any concerns. If you notice withdrawal symptoms, make your doctor or dentist aware right away. Your dentist is here to help your health, not hurt it. Good communication is key for safe and exceptional results.

Hands off! It’s common for opioid misuse to start with buying, “borrowing,” or being given someone else’s prescribed medications. Leftover medications around the house can also increase the risk of opioid abuse. Don’t give family, friends, children, or pets a chance to get to your opioids. Dispose of unused medicine quickly and properly, for everyone’s sake. (20)

Limit your use. Even if your dentist prescribed several days’ worth of opioids, see if you can go without after a day or two. Each day you remain on opioids increases your chance of addiction, so if you can limit your usage, go for it!

Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Be sure your dentist is fully aware of you and your family’s medical history, especially if it involves addiction. Knowing the circumstances will help your dentist prescribe the best, most personalized option. You have many options for pain management. Don’t feel forced into taking opioid medication! Your health is uniquely yours—if opioids make you uncomfortable, your dentist can assist in finding a better treatment plan for you.

Ask away. Useful questions could include:

inquiring about less addictive medicine for pain management,

asking for an addiction risk assessment, and

investigating drug interactions between your prescriptions.

Believe it or not, good dentists aren’t bothered by questions. Taking your health seriously and learning your needs is a great step for any patient! The more you know, the more you can feel confident that your dental and overall health is thriving.

3. For Families

Wisdom tooth wellness plan. As mentioned, teens are likely to be given opioids for wisdom tooth removal. Unfortunately, this practice can intensify the likelihood of continued opioid use. Before your make any medication decisions for this procedure, try reviewing the facts together. You could start with this guide created specifically for teens. Discussing prescription options for oral surgery is a fantastic opportunity. Your conversation now could help your teenager navigate the opioid epidemic in the future.

Know what you’re dealing with. Do your best to stay informed on all possible drug threats your teen is facing, including opioids. This recent report on drug use among teens is a helpful resource. A bit of good news: there is no significant spike in opioid use disorder in teens until they reach 12th grade.

Protect the next generation. Pregnant women should know that abusing opioids while expecting is highly dangerous. The decision to misuse prescription opioids can result in your baby experiencing withdrawal symptoms or birth defects. In more severe cases, mothers with opioid use disorder can even lose their child. (21) This list outlines options for a healthier lifestyle and safer baby. Your child and your body are too important to put through opioid addiction!

Build a support network. IECMH consultants offer support and tools to families that have been affected by opioid misuse. If you or someone in your family is struggling, call 1-800-662-4357 for referrals to nearby programs. You can still receive the help and care you need for your child and family. It’s never too late, and you are not alone.

Sharing (information) is caring. If you suspect a teen in your family is misusing pain medicine, you can direct them to this guide. Ask their pediatrician for any recommended resources, and offer to talk if they’re ready.

Storing and Disposing of Opioid Medications

[Saturday, April 27, 2019 is National Prescription Drug Takeback Day. Between 10 AM—2 PM, you can turn in unused prescription drugs, including opioids, at locations throughout the United States. Check out Google’s Location Finder for a location near you.]

Imagine that you were prescribed a week of opioids for a dental surgery.

Being aware of the dangers they can pose, you stopped use by day three. You wanted to control your addiction risk, even if you had more pills. I’d say that’s a great job of prevention! However, even if you don’t finish your opioid prescription, it still poses a significant risk.

“Leftovers” are never safe to keep around your residence. In particular, unused opioids from dental procedures are common targets for drug abusers. (22)

To put an end to nonmedical drug use in your home, you cannot leave them lying around. Luckily, patients have many safe options for storing and disposing of opioid medications.

Until you can remove the opioid medication from your home, the best way to store your pills is in a safe place. Choose a space out of sight and beyond children’s reach, ideally in a locked cabinet. The only person who should be able to access those pills is the person responsible for them. Taking this measure prevents future addictions, accidental poisonings, and more.

To say goodbye to your medication, here are a few safe disposal options:

Medicine take-back sites and events,

Collection receptacles. (Your local law enforcement agency can direct you to any nearby community receptacles).

Flushing certain, potentially dangerous medicines in the toilet. For a guide on how to do this safely, click here.

What’s the best time to dispose of your opioids? As soon as possible. The more time that elapses before disposal, the higher the odds of abuse.

Key Takeaways: How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic

Before you fill your prescription to treat your dental pain, think twice about the highly addictive nature of opioids. The opioid epidemic in the U.S. increases every year. Education, awareness, and prevention can reverse this terrible trend.

There are other choices for pain relief with notably safer side effects. These include options such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin.

So, whether you’re a dentist, patient, or family member, don’t be afraid to discuss options when it comes to pain management!

If you do decide on opioids for dental pain, be sure to limit your intake. Be sure to communicate with your dentist, follow instructions to the letter, and dispose of any unused pills quickly and appropriately. It’s possible to use opioids safely if you are communicative with your dentist and disciplined in your approach.

Lastly, if you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use disorder, know that there is a network of recovery, support and treatment that’s poised to help. You have more resources available than you may know. Informed and empowered, patients and dentists can stop dentistry prescribed opiate abuse and choose safe pain management.

read next: Know Before You Go: Root Canals

22 References

Phillips, J. K., Ford, M. A., Bonnie, R. J., & National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2017). Trends in Opioid Use, Harms, and Treatment. In Pain Management and the Opioid Epidemic: Balancing Societal and Individual Benefits and Risks of Prescription Opioid Use. National Academies Press (US). Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK458661/

Kolodny, A., Courtwright, D. T., Hwang, C. S., Kreiner, P., Eadie, J. L., Clark, T. W., & Alexander, G. C. (2015). The prescription opioid and heroin crisis: a public health approach to an epidemic of addiction. Annual review of public health, 36, 559-574. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25581144

Nadelmann, E., & LaSalle, L. (2017). Two steps forward, one step back: current harm reduction policy and politics in the United States. Harm reduction journal, 14(1), 37. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5469032/

Novak, S. P., Håkansson, A., Martinez-Raga, J., Reimer, J., Krotki, K., & Varughese, S. (2016). Nonmedical use of prescription drugs in the European Union. BMC psychiatry, 16(1), 274. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4972971/

Harbaugh, C. M., Nalliah, R. P., Hu, H. M., Englesbe, M. J., Waljee, J. F., & Brummett, C. M. (2018). Persistent opioid use after wisdom tooth extraction. Jama, 320(5), 504-506. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30088000

Varma, A., Sapra, M., & Iranmanesh, A. (2018). Impact of opioid therapy on gonadal hormones: focus on buprenorphine. Hormone molecular biology and clinical investigation, 36(2). Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29453925

Myers, L., & Wodarski, J. S. (2015). Using the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) evidence-based practice kits in social work education. In E-Therapy for Substance Abuse and Co-Morbidity (pp. 53-73). Springer, Cham. Abstract: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-12376-9_5

Cicero, T. J., Ellis, M. S., Surratt, H. L., & Kurtz, S. P. (2014). The changing face of heroin use in the United States: a retrospective analysis of the past 50 years. JAMA psychiatry, 71(7), 821-826. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24871348

Aliprantis, D., & Schweitzer, M. E. (2018). Opioids and the Labor Market. Abstract: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3179068

Birnbaum, H. G., White, A. G., Schiller, M., Waldman, T., Cleveland, J. M., & Roland, C. L. (2011). Societal costs of prescription opioid abuse, dependence, and misuse in the United States. Pain medicine, 12(4), 657-667. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21392250

Angres, D. H., & Bettinardi-Angres, K. (2008). The disease of addiction: origins, treatment, and recovery. Disease-a-month: DM, 54(10), 696. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18790142

Clarke, H., Soneji, N., Ko, D. T., Yun, L., & Wijeysundera, D. N. (2014). Rates and risk factors for prolonged opioid use after major surgery: population based cohort study. Bmj, 348, g1251. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3921439/

Savage, S. R. (2002). Assessment for addiction in pain-treatment settings. The Clinical journal of pain, 18(4), S28-S38. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12479252

Webster, L. R. (2017). Risk factors for opioid-use disorder and overdose. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 125(5), 1741-1748. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29049118

Bieber, C. M., Fernandez, K., Borsook, D., Brennan, M. J., Butler, S. F., Jamison, R. N., … & Katz, N. P. (2008). Retrospective accounts of initial subjective effects of opioids in patients treated for pain who do or do not develop opioid addiction: a pilot case-control study. Experimental and clinical psychopharmacology, 16(5), 429. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3153468/

Arkes, J., Iguchi, M. How Predictors of Prescription Drug Abuse Vary by Age. Journal of Drug Issues (2008) Abstract: https://www.ncjrs.gov/App/AbstractDB/AbstractDBDetails.aspx?id=248641

Rudd, R. A., Aleshire, N., Zibbell, J. E., & Matthew Gladden, R. (2016). Increases in drug and opioid overdose deaths—United States, 2000–2014. American Journal of Transplantation, 16(4), 1323-1327. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26720857

Shah A, Hayes CJ, Martin BC. Characteristics of Initial Prescription Episodes and Likelihood of Long-Term Opioid Use — United States, 2006–2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017;66:265–269. Abstract: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6610a1

Denisco, R. C., Kenna, G. A., O’Neil, M. G., Kulich, R. J., Moore, P. A., Kane, W. T., … & Katz, N. P. (2011). Prevention of prescription opioid abuse: The role of the dentist. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 142(7), 800-810. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21719802

Finnegan, L. P., Connaughton, J. J., Kron, R. E., & Emich, J. P. (1975). Neonatal abstinence syndrome: assessment and management. Addictive diseases, 2(1-2), 141-158. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30819342

Maughan, B. C., Hersh, E. V., Shofer, F. S., Wanner, K. J., Archer, E., Carrasco, L. R., & Rhodes, K. V. (2016). Unused opioid analgesics and drug disposal following outpatient dental surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Drug and alcohol dependence, 168, 328-334. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27663358

The post How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic (for Dentists, Patients, and Families) appeared first on Ask the Dentist.

How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic (for Dentists, Patients, and Families) published first on https://wittooth.tumblr.com/

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dentalinfotoday · 5 years

Link

You may have heard of the “opioid epidemic” rumbling through our nation, but what does that term mean?

If you’re unfamiliar with this crisis in the United States, it may shock you to learn that dental offices can be starting points for this epidemic.

Let’s look at how this works for everyone from the dentist to the patient (and those in between). There is hope for opioid addiction.

What are opioids?

It’s possible to become addicted to opioids in as little as five days. (1)

You can stay safe from the opioid epidemic by knowing the risks of using opioids, educating yourself on taking prescribed opioids correctly, and understanding what to do if addiction takes hold.

List of Opioids Prescribed in Dentistry

The following are opioid drugs often prescribed for pain management by dentists:

Hydrocodone (Vicodin)—The prescription rate for this drug doubled between 1999 and 2011.

Oxycodone (Percocet® or OxyContin®)—This prescription rate increased 500% in the same timeframe. (2)

Acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol® No. 3 and Tylenol® No. 4).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. is in the midst of the “worst drug overdose epidemic in history.” (3)

What is the opioid epidemic?

The opioid epidemic is caused, in part, by nonmedical use of prescription drugs. This may include: (4)

Taking a larger prescription than needed

Using drugs prescribed to someone else

Taking your prescription with alcohol or other legal or illegal drugs

Abusing prescription drugs to feel a sense of euphoria—this behavior is much more likely to occur with opioid pain relievers than with other medicines

The definition of opioid use disorder is a pattern of misuse that leads to emotional or functional distress.

If prescriptions for opioids slow down, this epidemic may as well.

Opioid Abuse Statistics

How many people abuse opioids?

Prescription Opioids vs. Heroin

In 2016, 11.5 million Americans misused prescription opioids, a number far greater than the 948,000 who had used heroin. That’s an astronomical difference in users.

Unfortunately, only 17.5% of those addicted to opioid painkillers sought professional help. This totals far less recovery treatment per capita than those fighting a heroin addiction. (7)

Can prescribed opioids function as a gateway drug?

Substance abuse is always a real threat. Prescribed opioids present no less inherent danger and can lead to other addictions.

Can prescribed opioids hurt my job performance?

Research has linked an increase in opioid prescriptions to a decrease in the number of people participating in the labor force. Men with less than a bachelor’s degree are the most vulnerable.

What does prescription opioid misuse cost society?

This epidemic impacts taxpayers, patients, public health, members of the workforce, our courts, and more.

How do people get addicted to an opioid?

Addiction is defined as continued use of a drug despite negative consequences, so avoid it at all costs. (11)

You can learn more about the brain’s response to drugs in this video from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Short-term and Long-term Effects of Opioids

So, other than addiction, what risks and effects are you facing if you use medical opioids?

Short term use can have fewer side effects, though still potentially unpleasant ones. A few of these pesky problems include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, and slowed breathing.

As you continue, your tolerance will increase, which demands higher, more harmful doses to feel the opioids’ impact. These negative side effects will continue to compound with prolonged use. (12)

Risk Factors for Opioid Addiction

Risk factors for opioid use disorder are complex, but there are a few considerations that could raise your chances of getting hooked.

Mental health conditions. Any struggles with mental illness can make taking opioids more risky, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

This list of symptoms can help you and your doctor assess if you are struggling with substance use disorder.

The good news is that you have more treatment options than you may realize. This problem is treatable with time, effort, and intentional steps toward change.

Can you overdose on prescription opioids?

Overdosing on prescription opioids is 100% possible. The problem in abusing these drugs is that you build up tolerance over time. Users seek “higher highs” and bigger doses to feel satiated.

Taking a high dose of opioids can lead to death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.

This is a crucial juncture in history for understanding and preventing overdoses. The opioid epidemic mortality rate is skyrocketing. Overdose deaths in this category have risen 200% since 2000.

In fact, the CDC found that 61% of all drug overdose deaths were linked to an opioid. (18) As it steals over 130 lives each day, this crisis has established itself as a real national threat.

Wondering if you’re in danger of abusing opioids? This quiz can help you and your doctor assess if you need treatment for substance abuse.

If you’re looking for a next step, there are resources available.

SAMHSA has a directory of opioid treatment programs.

You might join a meeting of Narcotics Anonymous for support.

Finally, consider this thorough list of National Institute of Health-approved options to treat opioid addiction.

Most importantly, if you feel you are in danger of an overdose, call 911 right away. Your treatment plan can be determined once you are safe and in stable condition.

How to Prevent Opioid Addiction

Now that we’ve covered the seriousness of this crisis, it’s time for one of my favorite subjects: prevention.

1. For Dentists

Do your homework. Check in with your state prescription database to be sure your patient does not already have an opioid prescription.

2. For Patients

Ask away. Useful questions could include:

inquiring about less addictive medicine for pain management,

asking for an addiction risk assessment, and

investigating drug interactions between your prescriptions.

3. For Families

Storing and Disposing of Opioid Medications

Imagine that you were prescribed a week of opioids for a dental surgery.

“Leftovers” are never safe to keep around your residence. In particular, unused opioids from dental procedures are common targets for drug abusers. (22)

To put an end to nonmedical drug use in your home, you cannot leave them lying around. Luckily, patients have many safe options for storing and disposing of opioid medications.

To say goodbye to your medication, here are a few safe disposal options:

Medicine take-back sites and events,

Collection receptacles. (Your local law enforcement agency can direct you to any nearby community receptacles).

Flushing certain, potentially dangerous medicines in the toilet. For a guide on how to do this safely, click here.

What’s the best time to dispose of your opioids? As soon as possible. The more time that elapses before disposal, the higher the odds of abuse.

Key Takeaways: How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic

There are other choices for pain relief with notably safer side effects. These include options such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin.

So, whether you’re a dentist, patient, or family member, don’t be afraid to discuss options when it comes to pain management!

read next: Know Before You Go: Root Canals

22 References

Aliprantis, D., & Schweitzer, M. E. (2018). Opioids and the Labor Market. Abstract: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3179068

Angres, D. H., & Bettinardi-Angres, K. (2008). The disease of addiction: origins, treatment, and recovery. Disease-a-month: DM, 54(10), 696. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18790142

Savage, S. R. (2002). Assessment for addiction in pain-treatment settings. The Clinical journal of pain, 18(4), S28-S38. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12479252

Webster, L. R. (2017). Risk factors for opioid-use disorder and overdose. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 125(5), 1741-1748. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29049118

Arkes, J., Iguchi, M. How Predictors of Prescription Drug Abuse Vary by Age. Journal of Drug Issues (2008) Abstract: https://www.ncjrs.gov/App/AbstractDB/AbstractDBDetails.aspx?id=248641

The post How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic (for Dentists, Patients, and Families) appeared first on Ask the Dentist.

from Ask the Dentist https://askthedentist.com/opioid-epidemic/

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kristinsimmons · 5 years

Text

How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic (for Dentists, Patients, and Families)

You may have heard of the “opioid epidemic” rumbling through our nation, but what does that term mean?

If you’re unfamiliar with this crisis in the United States, it may shock you to learn that dental offices can be starting points for this epidemic.

Let’s look at how this works for everyone from the dentist to the patient (and those in between). There is hope for opioid addiction.

What are opioids?

It’s possible to become addicted to opioids in as little as five days. (1)

You can stay safe from the opioid epidemic by knowing the risks of using opioids, educating yourself on taking prescribed opioids correctly, and understanding what to do if addiction takes hold.

List of Opioids Prescribed in Dentistry

The following are opioid drugs often prescribed for pain management by dentists:

Hydrocodone (Vicodin)—The prescription rate for this drug doubled between 1999 and 2011.

Oxycodone (Percocet® or OxyContin®)—This prescription rate increased 500% in the same timeframe. (2)

Acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol® No. 3 and Tylenol® No. 4).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. is in the midst of the “worst drug overdose epidemic in history.” (3)

What is the opioid epidemic?

The opioid epidemic is caused, in part, by nonmedical use of prescription drugs. This may include: (4)

Taking a larger prescription than needed

Using drugs prescribed to someone else

Taking your prescription with alcohol or other legal or illegal drugs

Abusing prescription drugs to feel a sense of euphoria—this behavior is much more likely to occur with opioid pain relievers than with other medicines

The definition of opioid use disorder is a pattern of misuse that leads to emotional or functional distress.

If prescriptions for opioids slow down, this epidemic may as well.

Opioid Abuse Statistics

How many people abuse opioids?

Prescription Opioids vs. Heroin

In 2016, 11.5 million Americans misused prescription opioids, a number far greater than the 948,000 who had used heroin. That’s an astronomical difference in users.

Unfortunately, only 17.5% of those addicted to opioid painkillers sought professional help. This totals far less recovery treatment per capita than those fighting a heroin addiction. (7)

Can prescribed opioids function as a gateway drug?

Substance abuse is always a real threat. Prescribed opioids present no less inherent danger and can lead to other addictions.

Can prescribed opioids hurt my job performance?

Research has linked an increase in opioid prescriptions to a decrease in the number of people participating in the labor force. Men with less than a bachelor’s degree are the most vulnerable.

What does prescription opioid misuse cost society?

This epidemic impacts taxpayers, patients, public health, members of the workforce, our courts, and more.

How do people get addicted to an opioid?

Addiction is defined as continued use of a drug despite negative consequences, so avoid it at all costs. (11)

You can learn more about the brain’s response to drugs in this video from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

youtube

Short-term and Long-term Effects of Opioids

So, other than addiction, what risks and effects are you facing if you use medical opioids?

Short term use can have fewer side effects, though still potentially unpleasant ones. A few of these pesky problems include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, and slowed breathing.

As you continue, your tolerance will increase, which demands higher, more harmful doses to feel the opioids’ impact. These negative side effects will continue to compound with prolonged use. (12)

Risk Factors for Opioid Addiction

Risk factors for opioid use disorder are complex, but there are a few considerations that could raise your chances of getting hooked.

Mental health conditions. Any struggles with mental illness can make taking opioids more risky, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

This list of symptoms can help you and your doctor assess if you are struggling with substance use disorder.

The good news is that you have more treatment options than you may realize. This problem is treatable with time, effort, and intentional steps toward change.

Can you overdose on prescription opioids?

Overdosing on prescription opioids is 100% possible. The problem in abusing these drugs is that you build up tolerance over time. Users seek “higher highs” and bigger doses to feel satiated.

Taking a high dose of opioids can lead to death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.

This is a crucial juncture in history for understanding and preventing overdoses. The opioid epidemic mortality rate is skyrocketing. Overdose deaths in this category have risen 200% since 2000.

In fact, the CDC found that 61% of all drug overdose deaths were linked to an opioid. (18) As it steals over 130 lives each day, this crisis has established itself as a real national threat.

Wondering if you’re in danger of abusing opioids? This quiz can help you and your doctor assess if you need treatment for substance abuse.

If you’re looking for a next step, there are resources available.

SAMHSA has a directory of opioid treatment programs.

You might join a meeting of Narcotics Anonymous for support.

Finally, consider this thorough list of National Institute of Health-approved options to treat opioid addiction.

Most importantly, if you feel you are in danger of an overdose, call 911 right away. Your treatment plan can be determined once you are safe and in stable condition.

How to Prevent Opioid Addiction

Now that we’ve covered the seriousness of this crisis, it’s time for one of my favorite subjects: prevention.

1. For Dentists

Do your homework. Check in with your state prescription database to be sure your patient does not already have an opioid prescription.

2. For Patients

Ask away. Useful questions could include:

inquiring about less addictive medicine for pain management,

asking for an addiction risk assessment, and

investigating drug interactions between your prescriptions.

3. For Families

Storing and Disposing of Opioid Medications

Imagine that you were prescribed a week of opioids for a dental surgery.

“Leftovers” are never safe to keep around your residence. In particular, unused opioids from dental procedures are common targets for drug abusers. (22)

To put an end to nonmedical drug use in your home, you cannot leave them lying around. Luckily, patients have many safe options for storing and disposing of opioid medications.

To say goodbye to your medication, here are a few safe disposal options:

Medicine take-back sites and events,

Collection receptacles. (Your local law enforcement agency can direct you to any nearby community receptacles).

Flushing certain, potentially dangerous medicines in the toilet. For a guide on how to do this safely, click here.

What’s the best time to dispose of your opioids? As soon as possible. The more time that elapses before disposal, the higher the odds of abuse.

Key Takeaways: How to Avoid the Opioid Epidemic

There are other choices for pain relief with notably safer side effects. These include options such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin.

So, whether you’re a dentist, patient, or family member, don’t be afraid to discuss options when it comes to pain management!

read next: Know Before You Go: Root Canals

22 References

Aliprantis, D., & Schweitzer, M. E. (2018). Opioids and the Labor Market. Abstract: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3179068

Angres, D. H., & Bettinardi-Angres, K. (2008). The disease of addiction: origins, treatment, and recovery. Disease-a-month: DM, 54(10), 696. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18790142

Savage, S. R. (2002). Assessment for addiction in pain-treatment settings. The Clinical journal of pain, 18(4), S28-S38. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12479252

Webster, L. R. (2017). Risk factors for opioid-use disorder and overdose. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 125(5), 1741-1748. Abstract: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29049118

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